Cultural reclamation of Midway Atoll

Three Hawaiian language scholars will discuss “Kuaihelani: Cultural Reclamation of Midway Atoll” in an upcoming Eia Hawai‘i presentation in Hilo and a Puana Ka ‘Ike lecture in Kona.

The lectures by Aulani Wilhelm, Dr. Kalani Makekau-Whittaker, and Hawane Rios will be from noon-1:30 p.m. today at the University of Hawaii Hilo, Campus Center 301, and from 5:30-7 p.m. Friday at Keauhou Shopping Center, Suite 140. This is a change of venue from a previously announced location.

Although a part of the Hawaiian Archipelago, the cultural history and significance of Midway Atoll has been forgotten along with its traditional name.

In 2011, a group of Hawaiian language scholars embarked on a journey to recover some of the cultural history of Midway.

A critical part of this process was a trip to Midway to connect the archival research to observations and experiences on the atoll and to reconnect that ‘aina (land) to our culture through language and ceremony.

The presentation will share the process and outcomes of this unique project developed through a partnership between Kipuka Native Hawaiian Student Center, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Ka Haka ‘Ula o Ke‘elikolani at UH Hilo and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Association.

For more information on this presentation, contact Joy Cunefare at (800) 842-4682, extension 25340, or e-mail info@kohalacenter.org.

The Puana Ka ‘Ike and Eia Hawai‘i lecture series are presented in partnership with Keauhou-Kahalu‘u Education Group, Kamehameha Schools, The Kohala Center, University of Hawai‘i at Hilo: Kīpuka Native Hawaiian Student Center, and the Keauhou Shopping Center.

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